Media Studies - Year 13
Media Studies is the study of the ways in which media texts shape and are shaped by a mass audience, since neither a media project not its audience, either real or potential, can be viewed in isolation. A dynamic course which allows for a discussion of current media events, which has practical components that link to the wider media community of Dunedin. The course has a balance of practical and theoretical Achievement Standards.
Level 3 Media Studies has something for everyone. It is a fast-paced course in which a high standard of written language and self-management study skills is required. Level 3 Media Studies encompasses areas including Cultural Studies, History, Linguistics (the study of language), Film, Journalism, Sociology (the study of society), and much more. It will be of interest for students interested in, or wanting to pursue careers as diverse as: advertising, journalism, print media, television, documentary, and the creative arts.
Although it is a stand-alone course, Achievement Standards such as 90604 ‘Complete and Justify a Concept and Treatment for a Media Project’ and 90606 ‘Create a Media Product using Appropriate Media’ consolidate and expand upon work done in Year 12. However, with a review of camera use and filming techniques early on in the course, and with practical components that will include the production of Bayleaf, a field trip to local media companies, and, towards the end of the year, a visit to a tertiary provider of Media Studies, students will easily become immersed in the exciting world of the media that is all around them.
Prerequisites
Students must have been in Band 1 English for Level 1 and have gained at least 18 credits in Level 2 English or Level 2 Media Studies. Students moving into Level 3 Media Studies from Level 2 Media Studies MUST have gained at least an ‘Achieved’ in 2.6 Film Production AS 90765. Individual applications from students who do not meet these criteria will be considered and such students interviewed.Course Structure
The NCEA standards offered in year 13 Media Studies are:Media Studies 90600 (3.2) Internal
Explain how meaning is created in media texts 4
Media Studies 90779 (3.3) Internal
Investigate an aspect of media and explain its significance for New Zealand 4
Media Studies 90602 (3.4) External
Explain the rationale between a media genre and society 4
Media Studies 90604 (3.6) Internal
Complete and justify a concept and treatment for a media product 2
Media Studies 90606 (3.8) Internal
Create a media product using appropriate media technology 6
Several internally assessed Standards will be used to furnish the school newspaper, The Bayleaf, allowing students to have their work published during the year.